Science
1210 Scientific Inquiries
Grade Level: Sophomore
Length: Two Semesters
Credit: 1.0 per Semester
Prerequisite: None
Scientific Inquiries is the one-year common science experience in which all sophomores are enrolled. The design of the course is inquiry-based being grounded in the question “How do I come to know the natural and constructed world, and what is my place in it?” Using this question as a guide, students explore concepts and principles related to evolution of the universe and of life, including cell structure/function and genetics. Features and processes of the universe are studied through examination of the nature of matter at an atomic and molecular level, energy transformations, and relationships between force and motion. This course initiates student opportunities to engage in inquiry-based curriculum that allows historical, personal and social connections to be constructed. After successful completion of this course, students are well prepared to continue their study of science at IMSA.
1203 Survey of Organic Chemistry
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
This course introduces the student to the chemistry of carbon compounds that are essential to living things. Students learn how organic compounds are classified and named as well as typical reactions. An investigation into polymer chemistry is included. There will be a strong emphasis on laboratory work, which will coordinate with concepts presented. This course is designed for the student who will only take one semester of organic chemistry.
1204 * Organic Chemistry I
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Fall Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
1205 * Organic Chemistry II
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Spring Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Organic Chemistry I
* These courses are designed as an introduction to the main functional groups of organic chemistry and their reactions. Emphasis is placed on understanding the theory behind organic reactions that includes discussion and problem solving. Experiments are included to introduce laboratory techniques as well as to demonstrate concepts introduced in the classroom. State-of-the-art instruments will be utilized in the laboratory. IMSA is one of the few high schools in the country to have a Fourier Transform Infra Red instrument and the only high school to have a Fourier Transform Nuclear Magnetic Resonance instrument. Connected with the course is an out of class NMR Group that meets once a week to enhance NMR theory and use of the instrument.
1206 Biochemistry
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
Biochemistry is the study of the substances found in living organisms and of the chemical reactions underlying life processes. This science is a branch of both chemistry and biology. The chief goal of biochemistry is to understand the structure and behavior of biomolecules. These are carbon containing compounds that make up the various parts of the living cell and carry out the chemical reactions that enable it to grow, maintain and reproduce itself, as well as use and store energy. Some of the topics to be discussed are: amino acids, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, immunoglobulins and enzymes; their structure, regulation and function. Systems of the human body; their function, regulation (hormones) and pathophysiology will also be discussed. The laboratories in Biochemistry will include separation techniques used in biology, such as molecular sieving, cellulose acetate and gel electrophoresis, and a project designed by the student.
1211 * Advanced Chemistry - Matter and Molecules
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Fall Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
1212 * Advanced Chemistry - Reactions and Qualitative Analysis
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Spring Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
* These courses continue the study of inorganic chemical principles that began with Scientific Inquiries. Emphasis is placed on laboratory exploration, demonstrations, discussions and problem solving to further advance the student's understanding of the material. In 1211, nomenclature, equation writing, and stoichiometry are practiced. Periodicity, electronic structure, bonding/geometry, states of matter, solutions, spontaneity, and phase equilibria are investigated. In 1212, the focus is on kinetics, chemical equilibrium (gaseous, acid/base, solubility, complex ion), electrochemistry and qualitative analysis.
1223 * Calculus-based Physics - Mechanics
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Fall Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries and AB or BC Calculus I
1224 * Calculus-based Physics - Electricity/Magnetism
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Spring Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries and AB or BC Calculus I
* Calculus-based physics follows the typical sequence of a university physics course. The first semester is devoted to topics in mechanics, while the second semester develops the ideas of electricity and magnetism. The major emphasis of the course is on problem-solving and calculus is used throughout. These courses are strongly recommended for students who intend to take the AP Physics C exam.
1225 Astrophysics
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
Astronomy is generally a “remote” science concerned with observing objects beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Astrophysics is concerned with the detailed inner workings of these astronomical bodies (and Earth itself) – how they transform energy and how they form and evolve. Astrophysics grows not only through remote observations but also through terrestrial experiments and computer modeling. The course will provide a brief overview of astronomy to serve as context and springboard to further investigations, much of which will be student-directed. Further background content will be introduced during the course, and will include nuclear and atomic science, electromagnetism, gravity and entropy.
1226 Observational Astronomy
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
Observational Astronomy is a course for students who wish to gain an understanding of the night sky. The identification of stars and their patterns, the use of coordinate systems, and celestial mechanics are the topics of emphasis. The naked-eye, binoculars, telescopes, and CCD imaging will be utilized extensively to examine the universe around us. There will be one evening meeting per week.
1228 Electronics
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
This is an introductory course in electronics designed for students with interest in hands on
experience with basic electronics. Students are encouraged to discover basic electrical concepts through laboratory experiences, derive various formulas and conclusions describing their observations, and test their theories with appropriate experimentation in the lab. Projects, incorporating the knowledge gained through guided discovery, provide a culminating experience for the students. Students are encouraged to choose projects that interest them and provide them with the appropriate level of challenge based on their current level of understanding. Course Topics include: Ohm's law, series/parallel circuits, Superposition Theorem, capacitors - AC & DC analysis, inductors, diodes, transistors, Op Amps and basic digital circuits.
1229 Modern Physics
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
This course includes topics in physics beyond the scope of Scientific Inquiries that relate to phenomena and devices of importance to modern physicists. These include: quantum and atomic physics, special relativity, cosmology, particle physics, nuclear physics, and symmetry. This course is recommended for students who intend to take AP Physics B exam.
1231 Advanced Physics - Motion and Forces
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Fall Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
This course continues the study of basic physics concepts begun in Scientific Inquires. It reviews some previously covered topics and presents additional material on conservation laws, rotational kinematics and dynamics, statics, and oscillating systems. The emphasis throughout is on laboratory-based discovery, problem-solving techniques, and laboratory analysis. This course, as well as Advanced Physics II, and Modern Physics are recommended for students who intend to take the AP Physics B exam.
1232 Advanced Physics - Waves and Fields
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Spring Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
This course continues the study of basic physics concepts begun in Scientific Inquiries. It reviews some previously covered topics and presents additional material on wave behavior, sound, light, ray optics, electricity, and magnetism. The emphasis throughout is on laboratory-based discovery, problem-solving techniques, and laboratory analysis. This course, as well as Advanced Physics I, and Modern Physics are recommended for students who intend to take the AP Physics B exam.
1242 Ecology
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Fall Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
Interrelationships among organisms, and their environments, and the diversity of the Earth's ecosystems, communities, and populations are covered in the course. The course considers both theoretical and applied aspects of ecology including current environmental issues. The course spends most lab days off campus examining field problems with several optional activities offered to supplement the regular course material.
1243 Human Anatomy and Physiology
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
This course covers the structures and functions of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the various systems as they relate to the maintenance of homeostasis. Laboratory work utilizes an observational/investigative format. Relevant ethical issues and adaptational evolution of structure and function are included in discussion. Cat dissection and class presentations are integral parts of the course.
1244 General Microbiology
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
This course examines microbial diversity, emphasizing the interrelationships of bacteria with their environments. This includes aspects of cell structure, metabolism, growth, and genetic structure/change in microorganisms, virology and microbial diversity. Laboratory exercises will include microscopy, staining techniques, pure culture techniques, control of microbial growth, quantitative techniques, and physiological testing. A series of unknown cultures will be presented to the student to test their mastery of the above techniques.
1245 Pathogenic Microbiology
Grade Level: Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Spring Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: General Microbiology
Survey of the bacteria, protozoa, viruses, and fungi associated with infectious disease, including study of morphology, physiology, and immunology of these host/parasite interactions. Students will learn about various disease-causing microbes via the case-study method. A library research paper dealing with some disease-causing microbe will be required.
1246 Genetics
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
This course explores various aspects of traditional and modern genetics, including developmental genetics, Mendelian genetics, sex linkage, mutations, population genetics, molecular genetics, statistical applications, and ethical dilemmas posed by recent technological advances. Varied activities, including labs, field trips, discussions, and lectures are used in the course format.
1250 Plants and People
Grade Level: Junior/ Senior
Length: One Semester (offered Spring Semester only)
Credit: 0.50 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: None
Plants and People is a laboratory botany course that explores plants and fungi and their impact upon people. Areas of emphasis include: food plants, poisonous plants and medicinal plants. Students will also investigate the species concept in plants, plant extinction, its consequences, and the use of plants by humans in the future. Field trips are an integral part of the course.
1251 Biotechnology
Grade Level: Junior/Senior
Length: One Semester (offered both Fall and Spring Semesters)
Credit: 1.00 Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
Students in this course will conduct laboratory work with the tools and techniques of modern molecular biology as well as come to understand the utility of biotechnology. Readings, discussions, presentations, and research projects will help the student place the science into the context of the society that developed it, focusing on topics ranging from the ethical employment of biotechnology to fictional and historical explorations of science and technology. This course will count as two academic courses towards the minimum five academic classes required each semester.
1278(F) * Junior Research in Science
1279(S)
Grade Level: Junior
Length: Two Semesters
Credit: 1.0 per Year Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
1290(F) * Senior Research in Science
1291(S)
Grade Level: Senior
Length: Two Semesters
Credit: 1.0 per Year Pass/Fail option
Prerequisite: Scientific Inquiries
* Junior/Senior Research is a two-semester science elective carrying 1.0 graduation credit with a pass/fail option. Students may obtain 1.0 credit for this course per year, for a total of 2.0 credits. It may not meet the entire science graduation credit; an additional 1.0 science elective credit must be taken for graduation. The purpose of this course is to give students an opportunity to engage in an in-depth scientific investigation of their choice. They will design, develop, trouble-shoot, conduct, interpret, and share results of their work, with faculty guidance. Students will engage in scientific inquiry and learn about inquiry by conducting their own investigation. Successful completion of Scientific Inquiries is a pre-requisite for acceptance into this course.